In a remarkable display during the Boxing Day Test against India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Australian batsman Steve Smith scored his 34th Test century, surpassing New Zealand’s Kane Williamson to secure the second spot among the esteemed ‘Fab Four’ in terms of Test centuries.
The ‘Fab Four’—comprising Virat Kohli, Joe Root, Kane Williamson, and Steve Smith—represent the pinnacle of modern Test batting. Smith’s latest century not only elevates him within this elite group but also places him alongside cricket legends such as Brian Lara and Sunil Gavaskar, who also have 34 Test centuries to their names.
Smith’s innings of 140 runs was characterized by his distinctive and unorthodox batting style, which has consistently confounded bowlers worldwide. His performance was instrumental in guiding Australia to a formidable first-innings total of 474, showcasing his ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when necessary.
This century also brings Smith tantalizingly close to the 10,000-run milestone in Test cricket, with his current tally standing at 9,949 runs. Achieving this feat would make him only the fourth Australian to reach the 10,000-run mark, joining the esteemed company of Ricky Ponting, Allan Border, and Steve Waugh.
Smith’s ascendancy in the list of Test centurions among the ‘Fab Four’ is a testament to his consistency and resilience over the years. While Joe Root leads the group with 36 Test centuries, Smith’s 34 now place him ahead of Williamson’s 33 and Virat Kohli’s 30.
The competition among these four batting maestros has been a focal point for cricket enthusiasts, with each player bringing a unique style and approach to the game. Smith’s latest achievement not only underscores his individual brilliance but also adds a new chapter to the ongoing narrative of the ‘Fab Four.’
As the series progresses, all eyes will be on Smith to see if he can maintain this exceptional form and continue to etch his name deeper into the annals of cricket history. His performance serves as an inspiration to aspiring cricketers and a reminder of the heights that can be achieved through dedication and passion for the sport.